Most of us want to belong to a church that is thriving. We want relevant preaching and teaching that will help us apply God’s truths to our everyday lives. But not so many of us are willing to contribute to create the atmosphere we want to be part of.
Most people today are busy. Many us are too busy. But busyness isn’t the key to a successful church. It’s not a question of how much can a few people do or if some can do more. The issue is our awareness and contribution in the little things.
In almost any church or any other organization there is an endless need for people to do what they can. And that doesn’t take organization or planning or meetings or permission. In a church it simply means we are Christians 24/7. That's less about what we do and more about who we are.
The fact is “Together we can do what we could never do alone.” But the truth goes beyond our theme for 2006. Together we can be what God intends us to be. We can build the church we want to be part of. Especially if we live out our beliefs.
In the days of Nehemiah in the Old Testament, the people realized they hadn’t been doing all that they should have done. Convicted, they were on the verge of deep sorrow. Instead of beating themselves up emotionally, the prophet offered another course of action.
He suggested that they go to their homes and throw parties. He explained that they should be thankful because they got the message, accepted responsibility, and decided to change.
That's sound advice for us today. This week and the rest of this year right into 2007 we should rejoice. The choice is ours. We can be bummed out or we can enjoy a sacred celebration.
Now, to many people sacred is synonymous with stodgy, stuffy old religion. But it doesn’t have to be. We can enjoy all the traditions and music and pageantry of the holidays and yet keep our joy fresh. Because joy doesn’t really come from what we do or how much we have or who we are with. Those things add to our happiness. But joy comes from God.
Furthermore, God’s joy strengthens us year round. And that should be cause for us to encourage one another. Such encouragement is needed at all times; everyone could use a little now and then.
So the next time you see someone who is struggling because they’ve not done what they know they should have or because they’ve done what they know they shouldn’t, why not do the unexpected?
Rather than tell them how short they fall from God’s standard of perfection, show them the same compassion Jesus shows you. Like you, they’re probably aware of their shortcomings. Like King David, they probably remember their weaknesses every time they look in the mirror. Like the adulterous woman brought before Jesus to be stoned they need what they don't expect.
And so do we. And when we get what we don’t deserve—grace—it changes our attitude and our actions. We want to do better rather than quit. Instead of condemning ourselves, we can get up and purpose to change.
And if we fail again, hopefully someone will encourage us again. And again. And again. And again.
We condemn ourselves enough without getting hit by the rocks others throw. What we need—and what we need to do for one another—is speak words of encouragement. That’s the fuel that propels us to excellence. That’s the foundation for a culture—a church—that people will want to be a part of.
Want to learn more? Visit http://praisechapelkingman.podblaze.com to hear a sermon by Senior Pastor Howard Pennington or any of our pastors or guest speakers.
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